Social media can make people more social primarily by expanding human connections, providing a safe haven for individuals who struggle to find like-minded peers in their local communities.
Expanding Human Connections Through Safe Havens
Based on insights regarding how social media expands human connections, it often serves as a vital platform for individuals seeking community and belonging. For people who may feel isolated or unique in their physical location, social media offers an accessible space to connect with others who share similar experiences, interests, or challenges.
This digital environment acts as a "safe haven" where individuals can openly share, seek support, and build relationships without the geographical barriers that might limit interaction in the physical world. This ability to find and engage with specific communities is particularly impactful for those with unique circumstances.
- Example: People dealing with rare diseases and their families often find social media platforms invaluable. These platforms allow them to connect with others facing similar health issues, sharing information, emotional support, and practical advice that might be difficult or impossible to find within their immediate local network.
By enabling these connections and creating spaces for niche communities, social media facilitates social interaction and support systems that might not otherwise exist, thereby making individuals feel more connected and social.
